How is bradycardia defined?

Bradycardia is defined as a slow heart rate, specifically when the heart beats fewer than 60 times per minute. This condition can be significant, as it may indicate underlying health issues such as problems with the heart's electrical system or issues related to increased vagal tone, among others. It's important to recognize bradycardia, as it can lead to inadequate blood flow to the body and symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, or fainting.

Understanding heart rate classifications is crucial for recognizing different types of heart rhythms. A rapid heart rate over 100 beats per minute indicates tachycardia, while a normal heart rate between 60 to 100 beats per minute signifies a healthy resting condition. An irregular heartbeat, which refers to variability in the rhythm of the heart’s beats, is a different concern. Hence, knowing that bradycardia specifically refers to a heart rate below 60 bpm provides clarity on what constitutes this condition.